Pope Francis criticizes Vatican bureaucracy, seeks reforms

The Vatican bureaucracy came under sharp criticism from none other than the Pope Francis. While addressing the annual Christmas gathering, the Pope minced no words in accusing cardinals, bishops, and priests “of lusting for power at all costs.” He said that the Curia - the topmost governing body of the Roman Catholic Church - was suffering from 15 "ailments," which he wants to cure.

Demanding reform of the Curia, Pope Francis posited that church's civil servants are playing "out of tune" as they lack team spirit. Pope Francis, an Argentine, is the first non-European pontiff. He is assisted by the Curia, which is dominated by Italians.